The GM LZX is a 1,364 cc, inline — three turbocharged gasoline engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and a twin — scroll turbocharger delivering responsive power output. High — pressure direct injection enables efficient combustion with strong low — RPM torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Cruze, Opel Astra K, and Vauxhall Insignia, the LZX was engineered for compact and mid — si…
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The GM LZX is a 1,364 cc, inline-three turbocharged gasoline engine engineered for compact and mid-size vehicles (2016-2020). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,364 cc | |
Fuel type | Gasoline | |
Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged with twin-scroll turbocharger | |
Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
Power output | 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) | |
Torque | 200–230 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbocharger (Mitsubishi TD04) | |
Timing system | Chain (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 102 kg |
The GM LZX was used across GM's Cruze/Astra K platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Holden for Australian-market applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in the Astra K and recalibrated ECU maps in the Cruze-and from 2017 the facelifted Astra K adopted the updated LZX-TU variant with improved PCV routing, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's Trax and Barina to utilize this engine family. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LZX's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal GM data from 2018 reported over 30% of pre-2017 engines developing significant deposits before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link nearly 15% of MOT failures to misfire codes from EGR and valve fouling. Frequent cold starts and extended idling accelerate oil vapor deposition, making oil quality and induction cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LZX offers good performance and efficiency but early models (2016–2017) are prone to intake valve carbon buildup due to direct injection and PCV design. Later revisions (post-2017) improved PCV routing, so well-maintained examples with regular induction cleaning can be reliable. Strict oil changes with GM dexos1 Gen 2 are essential for longevity.
The biggest issues are intake valve carbon buildup, turbocharger oil coking, timing chain tensioner wear, and EGR valve sticking. These are well-documented in GM service bulletins SI-19874 and G-1364-02. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets also occur beyond 100,000 km.
This 1.4L turbo was used in the Chevrolet Cruze (2016–2020), Opel Astra K (2016–2020), Vauxhall Insignia B (2017–2020), Holden Barina (2017–2020), and Holden Trax (2017–2020). All variants meet Euro 6 standards. The engine is not used in North American Buick or Cadillac models.
Yes. The LZX is highly tunable. Stage 1 ECU remaps routinely gain +20–30 kW safely, leveraging its robust internals and strong torque curve. Upgraded intercoolers and exhaust systems further enhance gains. However, tuning increases stress on the turbocharger and EGR system, requiring supporting modifications and stricter maintenance schedules.
Very good. In a Cruze 1.4T, typical consumption is ~6.5 L/100km (city) and ~4.7 L/100km (highway), or about 55 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures range from 48–60 mpg (UK) depending on driving style and climate. The engine’s lightweight design and direct injection contribute significantly to its efficiency.
Yes. The LZX is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can strike open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. Timely inspection and replacement of the tensioner and guides per GM TIS documentation are critical to prevent catastrophic failure.
GM specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting GM dexos1 Gen 2 specification. Always use a quality oil designed for direct-injection turbos and change it every 10,000–12,000 km to minimize carbon buildup and protect the turbocharger and timing components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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GM Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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